DEC Seeks Public's Assistance in Locating Illegal Dumper

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is asking the public for assistance in identifying an individual wanted in the illegal dumping of approximately 125 gallons of waste oil in the city of Schenectady, DEC Regional Director Keith Goertz announced today.

On July 10, DEC received a complaint of waste oil being illegally dumped on Van Der Bogart Street in the city of Schenectady. A witness described two individuals dumping the waste oil from large drums down a city storm drain.

Thanks to the assistance of the Schenectady fire and police departments, and utilizing security video footage from local businesses, DEC Environmental Conservation Officers apprehended one of the alleged dumpers on July 10.

Gholson Linwood, 58, of Schenectady was charged with felony level endangering public health, safety, and the environment under the New York State's Environmental Conservation Law. In addition, Mr. Gholson was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration.

DEC is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the second individual captured on video surveillance. The individual is described as a black male with green eyes, known locally as "Green Eyes" and is believed to be a Schenectady resident.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to contact DEC's tip line at: 1-844-DEC-ECOS (1-844-332-3267). Callers may request to remain anonymous.